In Dupuytren’s contracture, a fibrous tissue formation occurs in the palm of the hand that can cause the last two fingers to curl up.
The origin of this condition is not well understood.
Checklist for Dupuytren’s Contracture
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DMSO (topical) |
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary
studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use,
or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit. |
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Dupuytren’s contracture is initially noticed as a tender, small, hardened nodule on the palm of the hand. As it progresses, a cordlike band develops along the palm and finger, which causes the affected finger to stay in a semi-closed position.
Corticosteroid injections such as methyprednisolone (Depo-Medrol®) are commonly used.
Advanced contractures are treated with surgery; however, the recurrence rate is relatively high. Severe cases might require amputation of the affected finger.
Many decades ago, researchers investigated the effects of taking vitamin E to treat Dupuytren’s contracture. Several studies reported that taking 200–2,000 IU of vitamin E per day for several months was helpful.1 Other studies, however, did not find it useful.2 Overall, there are more positive trials than negative ones,3 although none of the published research is recent. Nonetheless, some doctors believe that a three-month trial using very high amounts of vitamin E (2,000 IU per day) is helpful in some cases.
DMSO applied to the affected area may reduce pain by inhibiting transmission of pain messages, and may also soften the abnormal connective tissue associated with disorders such as Dupuytren’s contracture, keloids, Peyronie’s disease, and scleroderma. Research on the use of topical DMSO to treat Dupuytren’s contracture remains preliminary and unproven.4
1. Thomson GR. Treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture with vitamin E. BMJ 1949;Dec 17:1382–3.
2. Richards HJ. Dupuytren’s contracture treated with vitamin E. BMJ 1952;June 21:1328.
3. Kirk JE, Chieffi M. Tocopherol administration to patients with Dupuytren’s contracture: effect on plasma tocopherol levels and degree of contracture. Pro Soc Exp Biol Med 1952;80:565 [review].
4. Jacob SW, Wood DC. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Toxicology, pharmacology, and clinical experience. Am J Surg 1967;114:414–26.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires July 2004.